National award for Redcliffe disability organisations

Two Redcliffe organisations for people with a disability have been recognised nationally with a 2012 NAB Schools First Impact Award, which is backed by NAB, the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA) and the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER).

Redcliffe Special School and Endeavour Foundation’s business service in Redcliffe have combined to form an association for the last seven years which is having a positive impact on the students.

It is one of only 130 such “outstanding school-community partnerships” (as described by NAB’s Head of Education) out of 765 applications to win an award and a share in $3 million of funding.

The partnership provides good quality weekly work experience for students with a disability, leading to a significant growth in full-time employment opportunities for graduates.

“Endeavour Foundation has many business services throughout Queensland and in Sydney, and working with local communities is paramount,” Mr Donne said.

“We have a wonderful relationship with the Redcliffe community, especially the Redcliffe Special School, and we are proud to contribute to the development of so many young people in the area.”

The Principal of Redcliffe Special School, Ray Hack, agrees.

“The award recognises the great range of work preparation programs we offer,” Mr Hack said.

“For many years, our students have completed work experience at Endeavour Foundation’s business site and have gone on to secure permanent positions.

“Together we are able to develop the skills of talented young people who are keen to work and contribute to the community.”

Representatives of Redcliffe Special School and Endeavour Foundation will be at the 2012 NAB Schools First National Event in Melbourne on 7th November, which features a school-community partnerships conference and an evening event at which the 2012 National Award winner will be announced.

Endeavour Foundation has more than 60 supported employees (people with a disability) at its Redcliffe site. Redcliffe Special School has more than 80 students with an intellectual disability.